Kalbarri is a photographer’s dream, with its rugged landscapes, stunning coastal cliffs, vibrant wildflowers, and rich colors of the Murchison River Gorge. Whether you’re an experienced photographer or just snapping memories with your phone, Kalbarri offers countless opportunities to capture breathtaking scenes. Here’s your guide to the best photo spots in Kalbarri, where you can snap the perfect shot.
Image © Tourism Western Australia
1. Nature’s Window: The Iconic Frame
If there’s one shot you must capture while visiting Kalbarri, it’s Nature’s Window. This iconic rock formation, naturally shaped like a window, perfectly frames the stunning views of the Murchison River Gorge below. Positioned high above the gorge, Nature’s Window is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Western Australia and provides a unique perspective for photographers.
Arrive early to avoid the crowds and capture the soft morning light illuminating the gorge. For an equally stunning photo, visit at sunset, when the orange and red hues of the rocks glow under the setting sun.
What we love: The natural rock frame creates a striking composition with the sweeping landscape behind it.
Good to know: The walk to Nature’s Window is a short, easy hike from the car park, making it accessible for most visitors.
Location: Kalbarri National Park, WA 6536
Image © Tourism Western Australia
2. Kalbarri Skywalk: Panoramic Gorge Views
The recently opened Kalbarri Skywalk offers one of the best vantage points in the national park. These two cantilevered platforms extend over the edge of the Murchison River Gorge, providing stunning panoramic views of the gorge and its towering red cliffs. From here, you can capture wide-angle shots of the river winding through the landscape below, with the endless outback stretching toward the horizon.
The dramatic perspective of the skywalk, combined with the deep colors of the gorge, makes for a photo that showcases Kalbarri’s vast and rugged beauty.
What we love: The skywalk’s elevated position offers unparalleled views of the gorge, perfect for wide-angle landscape photography.
Good to know: Visit early or late in the day to capture the best lighting conditions for photos, and be mindful of windy conditions on the platform.
Location: Kalbarri National Park, WA 6536
Image © Tourism Western Australia
3. Red Bluff: Coastal Cliffs and Ocean Views
Red Bluff is one of Kalbarri’s most spectacular coastal landmarks, with towering red cliffs that contrast beautifully against the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. It’s an ideal spot for capturing dramatic seascapes, particularly at sunset when the cliffs take on a rich, golden hue. The rugged coastline, combined with the power of the crashing waves below, makes for an unforgettable photograph.
There are several walking trails around Red Bluff, offering different perspectives of the cliffs and ocean. For the best shot, head to the lookout for a sweeping view of the coastline.
What we love: The vivid contrast between the red cliffs and the blue ocean, especially in the golden light of sunset.
Good to know: Red Bluff is just a short drive from Kalbarri town, making it an easy spot to visit for a sunset shoot.
Location: Red Bluff, Kalbarri, WA 6536
Image © Tourism Western Australia
4. Pot Alley: A Hidden Coastal Gem
For those looking for a more secluded and rugged coastal photo spot, Pot Alley is a hidden gem along Kalbarri’s coastline. This narrow gorge leads down to a small beach surrounded by dramatic cliffs, making it a stunning location for landscape photography. The jagged rocks and powerful waves create a striking contrast against the serene beach, offering endless opportunities for creative compositions.
Pot Alley is also a great place to capture long-exposure shots of the ocean, with the rocks and cliffs providing a dramatic foreground.
What we love: The remote, wild feel of Pot Alley and the opportunity to capture unique coastal shots away from the crowds.
Good to know: The descent to the beach is a bit steep, so wear sturdy shoes if you plan to explore the area fully.
Location: Pot Alley, Kalbarri, WA 6536
Image © Tourism Western Australia
5. Blue Holes: Snorkeling and Coastal Beauty
For a blend of underwater and coastal photography, Blue Holes is the place to go. This marine sanctuary, located just south of Kalbarri, offers crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, perfect for underwater photography. If you have a waterproof camera, you’ll be able to capture colorful fish and corals just below the surface.
On land, Blue Holes is equally picturesque, with its calm waters, rocky shoreline, and white sandy beaches creating a peaceful coastal scene. It’s an excellent spot for capturing the natural beauty of Kalbarri’s coastline.
What we love: The opportunity for both underwater and coastal photography in a serene, unspoiled setting.
Good to know: Early mornings offer the clearest water for snorkeling and underwater photos.
Location: Blue Holes, Kalbarri, WA 6536
6. Island Rock and Natural Bridge: Spectacular Seascapes
For dramatic seascapes, Island Rock and Natural Bridge are must-visit locations along Kalbarri’s coastal cliffs. These natural rock formations have been sculpted by the power of the ocean over millions of years, creating unique shapes that rise out of the sea. The rugged beauty of these landmarks makes them ideal subjects for landscape photography.
The best time to photograph Island Rock and Natural Bridge is during the golden hour, when the soft light bathes the cliffs in warm tones. From the lookouts, you can capture panoramic views of the cliffs, ocean, and rock formations.
What we love: The striking shapes of Island Rock and Natural Bridge, set against the backdrop of the endless ocean.
Good to know: Both sites are easily accessible via short walks from the car parks, with lookouts providing the best vantage points.
Location: Kalbarri Coastal Cliffs, WA 6536
7. Wildflower Season: A Burst of Color
From July to October, Kalbarri comes alive with vibrant wildflowers, making it one of the best times of the year for photography. The everlastings, Kalbarri spider flowers, and other native blooms create a kaleidoscope of colors that stretch across the landscape, providing stunning foregrounds for landscape shots.
The wildflower season is particularly beautiful in Kalbarri National Park, where the rugged terrain contrasts with the delicate flowers. Macro photography is perfect for capturing the intricate details of the blooms, while wide-angle shots can showcase the vast fields of color.
What we love: The explosion of color during wildflower season, offering endless opportunities for vibrant and unique photos.
Good to know: The best time to capture the wildflowers is early morning when the lighting is soft, and the flowers are at their freshest.
Location: Various locations in Kalbarri National Park, WA 6536
Image © Tourism Western Australia
8. Chinaman’s Beach: A Peaceful Riverside Scene
For a more relaxed and peaceful photo spot, head to Chinaman’s Beach along the Murchison River. This calm, sandy beach offers beautiful reflections of the river, especially at sunrise or sunset when the light creates soft pastels on the water’s surface. The nearby boats and piers also provide interesting elements to include in your composition.
Chinaman’s Beach is perfect for capturing tranquil riverscapes, as well as candid family or wildlife shots, with pelicans and other birds often frequenting the area.
What we love: The calm waters and peaceful atmosphere make Chinaman’s Beach a great spot for capturing serene riverside photos.
Good to know: The beach is easily accessible and close to town, making it a convenient spot for a quick photo session.
Location: Chinaman’s Beach, Kalbarri, WA 6536
Final Thoughts
Kalbarri’s diverse landscapes, from its rugged coastal cliffs to its vibrant wildflowers, provide endless opportunities for photography. Whether you’re looking to capture dramatic seascapes, tranquil river scenes, or the stunning colors of the wildflower season, Kalbarri has it all. So grab your camera, hit the trails, and discover the natural beauty of Kalbarri through your lens.